TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is the main agency responsible for enforcing the Vape Law, hence, the agency is intensifying its awareness drive on the said law to stop minors from obtaining vapor goods, especially through online and digital channels.
On August 23, 2024, the DTI regional office 8 convened officials from state universities and colleges, local government representatives, police officers, and representatives from national government agencies to deliberate on the execution of the law.
According to Atty. Ricci Torio, head of the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), shared that the agency has been traveling to provinces to talk about the provisions of the law that was enacted in 2022. Torio added that they aim to raise awareness since not all are familiar with the provisions of the law, and they would want local officials and partner agencies to know the impact of selling vape to minors.
As requested by the DTI regional office, Eastern Visayas is the first region outside of Metro Manila that DTI-FTEB has visited for its orientation on the Vape Law.
Republic Act 11900, or the “Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act,” regulates nearly all aspects of e-cigarettes, including health warnings, changing the minimum age from 21 to 18 years, allowing flavors and internet sales, and banning usage in specified public places.
The government’s efforts to safeguard individuals from any risks related to these items and to promote a healthy environment are further supported by the suspension. Accodingly, within 100 meters of places of interest frequented by minors, such as schools, the sale and marketing of e-cigarettes is illegal. By Gwen Maurillo (EV Mail August 19-25, 2024 issue)
